The concept of the WVEPAH programs is to offer comprehensive training modules consisting of residential courses and distance learning. They are designed for those professionals in the poultry industry who wish to broaden their knowledge in the area of poultry health and production. The intensive training is provided at an advanced level with major emphasis on a case oriented and problem-solving approach. Since the target audience consists of poultry senior executives graduated from veterinary school or agronomic university , very little time is devoted to basic subjects (anatomy, physiology…) which, for those who need it, will be covered by online information prior to the courses. Upon completion of a training program, the participants will have obtained a level of competence which will enable them to solve most of the problems in specific areas.
WVEPAH courses include lectures, discussions, demonstrations, case presentations and laboratory work. Special emphasis is given on how to retrieve specific information and how to use it for self-study and clinical work. Daily seminars and review sessions help to develop critical evaluation of the case material presented.
The core study program is composed of 3 residential Courses, course duration of 10 days each, with 1-2 web based distance learning modules in between the courses. Requirements are university education and academic degree in veterinary or agronomic studies. Follow up courses in specific areas are envisaged.
In order to permit a high level of training efficiency, the number of participants is limited and theoretical information is offered for not more than four hours a day. The remaining training time is reserved for practical problem solving exercises.
Each course is taught by course masters who are internationally recognized specialists in their field and have excellent didactic skills. In the period between the residential courses, participants of training program receive tasks from their course masters. This consists of material which will be mostly provided over the internet.
The course masters (tutors) in charge are responsible for the scientific content as well as for the conduction of the courses. We aim for universities of good standing as a venue for teaching the courses which provides an adequate teaching environment and logistic support. WVEPAH will provide as much local organizational and technical support as possible.

It is envisaged to offer the opportunity to the participants to obtain a certificate or a master degree in their field of study. Briefly, the requirements of these programs include:

A study duration of two to four years consisting of residential course work, written work and collecting practical experience during your professional activity in between courses

A minimal number of hours of coursework has to be taken

All coursework is validated by an examination

The participants also perform written tasks (case reports, case logs and thesis)